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Henrik Lundqvist rules out return this season due to heart inflammation

Henrik Lundqvist made it his “stretch goal” to continue his NHL career this season after undergoing open heart surgery in January. But the 39-year-old goaltender, who signed with the Washington Capitals in October 2020, has shelved those ambitious plans.

In a two-tweet statement Sunday, Lundqvist announced that he wouldn’t return to the ice to play for the Capitals this season because his “heart isn’t quite ready.” He said a checkup last week showed inflammation around his heart, requiring a few months of rest and recovery.

Right after getting back on the ice after surgery, I made it my “stretch goal” to join @Capitals for the end of the season.